Broward offering free shots for children

Before the back-to-school rush, the Broward County Health Department will offer free shots at locations throughout the county.

On Saturday, a back-to-school immunization and community fair featuring Dora the Explorer will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Lauderhill Mall, on State Road 7 and Northwest 12th Street.

In addition to the shots, families will get information on such resources as the Women, Infant and Children food program, dental services and drowning prevention.

"This year's events are bigger than what we've done in the past,'' said Candy Sims, a health department spokeswoman. "We're assisting health care providers who usually have a backlog this time of the year.''

The free service is available to children from birth to age 18, but a parent or legal guardian must accompany the child and they should bring the child's immunization records with them.